The rumors have been swirling for a while, but today they reached a fever pitch: Shirley Ballas could be joining the American Dancing with the Stars judging panel later this year. For those familiar with her career, Shirley is one of the most respected names in ballroom. Both she and her son, Mark Ballas, are in talks to serve as judges on the spin-off series titled Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro.
A Power Move for DWTS
The move makes perfect sense. Since the passing of legendary judge Len Goodman, there’s been a noticeable void on the panel for someone who truly understands the frame, footwork, and traditional rules of dance. Shirley is famous in the UK for exactly that. She’s tough, fair, and knows exactly what she’s looking for in every performance.
What Does This Mean for Strictly?
Fans are starting to ask the big question: Is Shirley leaving Strictly Come Dancing?
At this point, nothing is confirmed. However, timing could become an issue. Strictly typically films from September through December. If the US season shoots during that same window, Shirley may eventually have to decide where she’d want to be.
If she does make the move, she would be following a familiar path. Len Goodman and Bruno Tonioli both made the leap from Strictly to the US franchise after their time on the UK panel.
Len was there from the very first series in 2005 until his retirement in 2022, becoming a cornerstone of the ballroom. Bruno, of course, famously juggled both shows for years before settling full-time in the States.
So how would you feel about Mark and Shirley Ballas sharing the judges’ panel?
Photo Credit: JPI Studios.
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